Method, system and apparatus for telecommunications control

ABSTRACT

The present invention includes a method, system, and apparatus for providing communication control. The invention includes a method in which signaling is processed externally to a switch before it is applied by the network elements. The processor is able to select network characteristics and signal the network elements based the selections. A network employing the processing method is also included, as well as a signaling system that employs the processing method.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 08/568,551, now U.S. Pat.No. 5,825,780, filed on Dec. 7, 1995, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/238,605, filed on May 5, 1994 and nowabandoned. U.S. patent Ser. No. 08/238,605, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,825,780and application Ser. No. 08/238/605 are hereby incorporated by referenceinto this application.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to telecommunications and more specifically tocommunications control processing in telecommunications signaling.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Telecommunications systems establish a communications path between twoor more points to allow the transfer of information between the points.The communications path typically comprises a series of connectionsbetween network elements. The network elements are typically switches.Switches provide the primary means where different connections areassociated to form the communications path. Communication control is theprocess of setting up a communications path between the points.Communication control comprises the selection of network elements suchas switches or other devices which will form part of the communicationspath. Communication control also comprises the selection of theconnections between the network elements. Together, the network elementsand connections which are selected make up the communications path.Typically, a plurality of different network element and connectionselections may be possible for any one communications path betweenpoints.

Switches control these selections. Switches select the connections thatcomprise the communications path. Switches also select the networkelements which form an actual part of that communications path. Byselecting these network elements, a switch is often selecting the nextswitch that will make further selections. Switches accomplishcommunication control.

The correspondence between communication control and a communicationspath is well known in the art. A common method used in communicationcontrol is signaling among switches. One method by which a first pointrequests a communications path to a second point is by signaling a firstswitch with an off-hook signal followed by dual tone multifrequency(DTMF) signals. The first switch will typically process those signalsand will select other network elements such as a second switch. Thefirst switch signals the second switch and establishes a connectionbetween the switches. The second switch then selects the next networkelement, signals that network element, and establishes a connection tothat network element. This process is well known in the art. Theconnections and signaling thus proceed from switch to switch through thenetwork until a communications path is established between the first andsecond points.

Some networks transmit signaling information from the switches to othersignaling devices. In these cases, the switches typically must bemodified through the use of Signaling Point (SP) hardware and softwarein order to convert the language of the switch into the language used bythese other signaling devices. One signaling device is a Service ControlPoint (SCP). An SCP processes signaling queries from a switch. An SCPonly answers a switch query after the switch has become a part of thecommunications path. SCPs support the communication control which isdirected by the switch.

Additionally, signaling may pass through other signaling devices, suchas Signal Transfer Points (STPs), which route the signaling. An STP istypically a high-speed packet data switch which reads portions of thesignaling information and either discards or routes the information to anetwork element. The signal routing operation of the STP is based on thesignaling information that is specified by the switch. STPs routesignaling information, but STPs do not modify or otherwise process thesignaling information. An example of the above described system isSignaling System #7 (SS7) technology. Thus, signaling devices only areused to support switches in communication control.

Broadband systems, such as Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) may useextensions of existing SS7 signaling to allow ATM switches to directcommunication control. However, broadband systems may also utilizedifferent communication control methods. ATM switches may transfer ATMcells which contain signaling to other ATM switches. As with the otherswitch types however, ATM switches also perform the dual task ofcommunication control and forming a part of the communications path.

Some switches use API switching which employs remote central processingunits (CPUs). These switches only receive switch information from theremote CPUs and not signaling. The protocols used for informationtransfer between the switch and the remote CPU are proprietary amongvendors and are incompatible between the switches of different vendors.

Some digital cross-connect (DCS) equipment employ centralized controlsystems. These systems, however, only provide relatively staticswitching fabrics and do not respond to signaling. Instead ofestablishing connections in response to signaling, DCS cross-connectionsare established in response to network configuration needs. Networkelements and connections are preprogrammed into the network and are notselected in response to signaling from a point outside of the network.

At present, while communication control and the communications path aredistinct from one another, both are dependent on the switch. Theperformance of both of these tasks by switches places limitations on atelecommunications network. One such limitation can be illustrated byone difficulty encountered in combining narrowband networks andbroadband networks. Broadband networks are advantageous for datatransmission because virtual permanent connections can be mapped througha network and bandwidth allocated on demand. Narrowband switches areadvantageous for voice, in part, due to the many features which havebeen developed in conjunction with these switches. These featuresbenefit both the user and the network through added efficiency andquality. Examples are “800” platforms, billing systems, and routingsystems. However for broadband networks, the development of thesefeatures is incomplete and does not provide the functionality of currentnarrowband features. Unfortunately, narrowband switches do not have thecapacity, speed, and multimedia capabilities of broadband switches. Theresulting combination is separate overlay networks. Typically,narrowband traffic remains within the narrowband network, and broadbandtraffic remains within the broadband network.

Any intelligent interface between the two networks would require thatsignaling information be transmitted between narrowband switches andbroadband switches. At present, the ability of these switches to signaleach other is limited. These switch limitations create a major obstaclein any attempt to interface the two networks. It would be advantageousif narrowband and broadband networks could interwork through anintelligent interface to establish a communications path between points.At present, the interface between narrowband and broadband networksremains a rigid access pipe between overlay systems.

The reliance on switches to both perform communication control and toform the a part of the communications path results in impediments todeveloping improved networks. Each time a new network element, such as abroadband switch, is introduced, a telecommunications network may beforced to delay integrating the network element into its network untilstandardization of signaling and interface protocols are developed forthe switches. At present, there is a need for a portion of thecommunication control processing to be independent of the switches thatform a part of the communications path.

SUMMARY

An embodiment of the present invention solves this need by providing amethod, system, and apparatus for communication control processing thatis located externally to the switches that make the connections. Themethod includes receiving a first signal into a processor which islocated externally to the switches in a network comprised of networkelements. The processor selects a network characteristic in response tothe first signal. The processor then generates a second signalreflecting the network characteristic and transmits the second signal toat least one network element. This transmission occurs before thatnetwork element has applied the first signal. Examples of networkcharacteristics are network elements and connections, but there areothers. Examples of signaling are Signaling System #7 or broadbandsignaling. The processor may also employ information received from thenetwork elements or operational control when making selections. In oneembodiment, the method includes receiving the first signal into anetwork from a point and routing the first signal to the processor.

The present invention also includes a telecommunications processingsystem which comprises an interface that is external to the switches andis operational to receive and transmit signaling. The processing systemalso includes a translator that is coupled to the interface and isoperational to identify particular information in the received signalingand to generate new signaling based on new information. The processoralso includes a processor that is coupled to the translator and isoperational to process the identified information from the translator inorder to select at least one network characteristic. The processorprovides new information to the translator reflecting the selection. Theidentified information is used in the processor before it is used in theparticular network elements that receive the new signaling.

The present invention also includes a telecommunications networkcomprised of a plurality of network elements wherein at least onenetwork element is a switch, and a plurality of connections between thenetwork elements. The network also includes a processor locatedexternally to the switches which is operable to receive a first signal,to select at least one network characteristic in response to the firstsignal, and to generate a second signal reflecting the selection. Thenetwork also includes a plurality of links between the processor and thenetwork elements which are operable to transmit the second signal to atleast one network element before that network element has applied thefirst signal.

The present invention also includes a telecommunications signalingsystem for use in conjunction with a plurality of telecommunicationswitches. This system comprises a plurality of signaling points and asignaling processor. The signaling processor is linked to the signalingpoints and resides externally to the switches. The signaling processoris operational to process signaling and to generate new signalinginformation based on the processing. The new signaling is transmittedover the links to multiple signaling points. In one embodiment, the newsignaling information is comprised of different signaling messages andthe different signaling messages are transmitted to different signalingpoints.

In another embodiment, a plurality of the signaling points each residein a different switch and are directly coupled to a processor in theswitch that directs a switching matrix in the switch in response tosignaling processed by the signaling point. The signaling processor isoperational to direct the switching matrixes of multiple switches bysignaling multiple signaling points. The signaling processor is alsooperational to signal multiple points in response to signaling from asingle source, and to signal a point in response to signaling frommultiple sources.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with regard to the followingdescription, claims, and drawings where:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a logic diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a version of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a version of the invention.

DESCRIPTION

Telecommunications systems establish communications paths between pointswhich allow the points to transfer information, such as voice and data,over the communication paths. Typically, telecommunications systems arecomprised of network elements and connections. A network element is atelecommunications device such as a switch, server, service controlpoint, service data point, enhanced platform, intelligent peripheral,service node, adjunct processor, network element of a different network,enhanced system or other network related device, server, center orsystem.

A connection is the media between two network elements that allows thetransfer of information. A few examples of connections are: digital T1lines, OC-3 optical fibers, packet connections, dedicated access lines,microwave transmission, and cellular radio. As those skilled in the artare aware, connections can be described in a range from general tospecific. All of the media between two switches is a general descriptionand might correspond to a virtual path in an ATM system or a trunkgroups in a T1 system. An individual circuit between two elements ismore specific and might correspond to a virtual channel in an ATM systemor a DS0 circuit in a T1 system. Connections can also be described asbeing logical or physical. Physical connections areelectrical-mechanical media. Logical connections are paths which followphysical connections, but are differentiated from one another based onformat and protocol. The term “connection” includes this entire rangeand the meaning varies according to the context in which the term isused. The present invention could make selections encompassing theentire range of connections.

A communications path is the combination of connections and networkelements that physically transfers the information between points. Acommunication path may be point to point, point to multi-point, ormulti-point to multi-point. These points, in turn, define the ends ofthe communications path. Thus, a connection may also be made between anetwork element and a point outside the network.

Signaling is the transfer of information among points and networkelements and is used to establish communications paths. An example isSignaling System #7 (SS7). Signaling is typically transmitted overlinks, such as 56 kilobit lines. On the block diagrams, signaling isrepresented by dashed lines and connections are represented by solidlines.

In FIG. 1, Telecommunications System 110 comprises a communicationcontrol processor (CCP) 120 and first, second, third, fourth, fifth andsixth network elements, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135 and 136 respectively.First and second network elements, 131 and 132 respectively, areconnected by first connection 141. First and third network elements, 131and 133 are connected by both second and third connections, 142 and 143respectively. First and fifth network elements, 131 and 135respectively, are connected by fourth connection 144. Second and fourthnetwork elements, 132 and 134 are connected by fifth connection 145. Thethird network element 133 is connected to fourth and sixth networkelements, 134 and 136 by sixth and seventh connections, 146 and 147respectively. Fourth and fifth network elements, 134 and 135 areconnected by connection 148. A first point 170, which is located outsideof the system 110, is connected to first element 131 by first pointconnection 171, and a second point 172 which is also located outside thesystem 110 is connected to fourth element 134 by second point connection173. First and second points, 170 and 172 respectively and first,second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth elements 131, 132, 133, 134, 135,and 136 respectively each are linked to CCP 120 by first, second, third,fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth links, 191, 192, 193, 194,195, 196, 197 and 198 respectively.

As those skilled in the art are aware, a system is typically comprisedof many more network elements, links, connections and points, but thenumber is restricted for clarity. Points outside of the network can takemany forms, such as customer premises equipment (CPE), telephones,computers, or switches of a separate network system. In addition thesystem 110, may take many forms such as international gateways,satellite networks, wireless networks, local exchange carriers (LECs),interexchange carriers (IXCs), transit networks, national networks,personal communicator systems (PCS), virtual private networks, orconnection oriented networks such as local area networks (LANs),metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs) to namesome examples.

In operation Telecommunications System 110 is able to accept informationfrom first point 170 and second point 172 and transmit the informationover the various network elements and connections which form thecommunications path. System 110 is also capable of exchanging signalingwith first point 170 and second point 172 over the first link 191 andsecond link 192.

On a standard call that establishes a communications path from firstpoint 170 to second point 172, first point 170 will signalTelecommunications System 110 that it requests the communications path.This signaling is directed to CCP 120 over first link 191. CCP 120processes the signaling and selects at least one network characteristicin response to the signaling. Network characteristics might be networkelements, connections, network codes, applications, or controlinstructions to name a few examples. The selected network characteristictypically comprises one of a plurality of network elements and/orconnections. The CCP 120 generates signaling which is preferably newsignaling reflecting the selection. CCP 120 then transmits the signal toat least one of a plurality of network elements before that networkelement has applied the signal.

In one embodiment, CCP 120 selects the network elements and theconnections that comprise the communications path. However, first point170 will typically seize first point connection 171 contemporaneouslywith signaling. This initial connection could also be selected by CCP120 from the available possibilities after the signaling by first point170. Assuming first point 170 has seized first point connection 171 tofirst element 131, CCP 120 selects one, a plurality, or all of theremaining network elements and connections to further establish acommunications path to second point 172.

CCP 120 determines which element should be connected to first element131. CCP 120 could select either second element 132 or third element133. If third element 133 is selected, CCP 120 may also select theconnection to third element 133 from among second and third connections,142 and 143 respectively. If third connection 143 is selected, CCP 120will signal first clement 131 over third link 193 to further thecommunications path to third element 133 over third connection 143.

CCP 120 may then make further selections to complete the communicationspath. As the possibilities have been limited for clarity, CCP 120 wouldmake the selections and signal the elements as follows. CCP 120 wouldsignal third element 133 over fifth link 195 to further thecommunications path to fourth element 134 over sixth connection 146. CCP120 would signal fourth element 134 over sixth link 196 to further thecommunications path to second point 172 over second point connection173. CCP 120 would also signal second point 172 over second link 192 ofthe communications path available through second point connection 173.In this way, the communications path requested by first point 170 isselected by CCP 120 and signaled to the elements. Throughout thisprocess, CCP 120 may receive status messages and signaling from theelements to support its processing. This status messaging may betransmitted and received over links, connections, or other communicationmeans.

In another embodiment, CCP 120 may select only the network elements andnot the connections. The elements would select the connections to usebased on the network element selected by CCP 120. For this embodiment,the main difference from the above example is that CCP 120 wouldinstruct first element 131 to further the communications path to thirdelement 133, but first element 131 would select the actual connectionused from among second and third connections, 142 and 143, respectively.First element 131 may signal CCP 120 over third link 193 of itsselection so that CCP 120 may signal third element 133 of the connectionover fifth link 195. In this embodiment, CCP 120 would specify thenetwork elements to the elements, which in turn, would select theconnections between those network elements.

There are situations in which the selection of a network element and theselection of a connection signify the same thing. On FIG. 1 for example,instructing first element 131 to use first connection 141 is synonymouswith an instruction to connect to second element 132. This is becausethe connection inevitably connects to the element. The selection of aconnection may effectively select a network element, and the selectionof a network element may effectively select a connection (or a group ofspecific connections) to that network element.

One skilled in the art will recognize that the selection process can bedistributed among the CCP and the elements. The CCP might select all thenetwork elements, a portion of the network elements, or none of thenetwork elements leaving the switches to select the remainder. The CCPmight select all of the connections, a portion of the connections, ornone of the connections, again leaving the elements to select theremainder. The CCP may select combinations of the above options, but theCCP will always select at least one network characteristic.

In another embodiment, first point 170 may want to access a othernetwork elements such as servers, platforms or operator centers. Forexample, such elements could be located at either fifth or sixth networkelements 135, and 136 respectively. CCP 120 will receive signaling fromfirst point 170 over first link 191 indicating this request, and firstpoint 170 will typically seize first point connection 171 to firstelement 131. Again CCP 120 will select network elements. If sixthelement 136 is selected, CCP 120 could select a communications path fromfirst element 131 through either second element 132 to fourth element134 and then to third element 133, or through a direct connection fromfirst element 131 to third element 133. If CCP 120 selects the latter,it would signal first element 131 to further the communications path tothird element 133, and it would signal third element 133 to further thecommunications path to sixth element 136. As discussed in the aboveembodiments, CCP 120 may also select the connections, or the elementsmay be left with that task.

As is known in the art, in-band signaling is typically used in many userto network connections, such as the local loop. This is because only oneconnection or link is typically provided to the user premises and thus,the signaling must be placed on the actual communications path. Theinitial network switch typically removes the signaling from thecommunications path and transfers it to an out-of-band signaling system.The current invention is fully operational in this context. Although theswitch may receive the signaling initially, it will only route thesignaling to the CCP for processing. Even if in-band signaling is usedwithin the network, the switches could remove signaling from thecommunications path and route it to the CCP for processing in accordwith the present invention.

Thus, preferably the CCP processes signaling before it is applied orprocessed by the switch such as to select connections or generatequeries. Preferably, no or minimal changes are made to the signalingprior to the signaling being received by the CCP so that the CCPreceives the signaling in the same format as a switch would receive thesignaling. The CCP may also process the signaling in that format. Theswitches make their selections based on the CCP selections, thus theswitch selections clearly occur after the CCP has processed thesignaling. As such, the switch may route signaling to the CCP, but theswitch does not apply the signaling. Some examples of a switch applyingthe signaling would be selecting network elements or generating queriesfor remote devices.

In one of the above embodiments, the switches did not select the networkelements and connections, initiate the signaling, or otherwise controlthe communication. The switches only followed the instructions of theCCP and actually made the connections that furthered the communicationspath. In one embodiment, the switches were allowed to select the actualconnections used, but even these selections were based on CCPselections.

As illustrated above, the CCP allows a telecommunications network toseparate communication control from the communications path. In priorsystems, the switches would select the network elements and theconnections, as well as, actually providing a part of the actualconnection. As a result, prior systems are restricted to thecommunication control capabilities provided by the switches. Priorsystems have used remote devices, such as an SCP, to support switchcontrol, but the remote device only answered queries in response to theswitches processing of the signal. These remote devices do not processthe signaling before the switch had already applied the signaling. Byusing the CCP, telecommunications systems can control communicationsindependently of the capability of the switches to accomplish bothtasks.

FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of another embodiment of the presentinvention. CCP 250 and network 210 are shown. CCP 250 is acommunications control processor. CCP 250 could be integrated intonetwork 210, but need not be and is shown separately for clarity.Network 210 could be any type of telecommunications network thatoperates using network elements, signaling, and connections. Exampleswould be LECs, IXCs, LANs, MANs, WANs, and Cellular Networks, but thereare others. Additionally, network 210 could be narrowband, broadband,packet-based, or a hybrid. Network 210 is capable of providingcommunications paths between points both inside and outside of network210. CCP 250 and network 210 are linked by link 214 and are able tosignal each other in order to establish these paths.

Additionally, user 220 and user 230 are shown and are also capable ofsignaling. Examples of users 220 and 230 might be telephones, computers,or even switches in another telecommunications network. Users 220 and230 are connected to network 210 by connections 222 and 232respectively. Users 220 and 230 are linked to CCP 250 by links 224 and234 respectively. Signaling may be transmitted over links 224 and 234.If in-band signaling is employed on connections 222 and 232, network 210would separate at least a portion of the signaling out-of-band andtransmit it to CCP 250 over link 214.

Also shown are various network elements. As with CCP 250, these elementscould also be integrated into network 210, but are shown separately forclarity. These network elements are: networks 260, operator centers 262,enhanced platforms 264, video servers 266, voice servers 268, andadjunct processors 270. This is not an exclusive list. Those skilled inthe art will recognize these network elements and their functions, aswell as the many other types of telecommunications devices, such asbilling servers, that are applicable in this situation.

Each network element is connected to network 210 by connection 212.Connection 212 represents several actual connections between the networkelements (260-270) and different elements in network 210. One bus-typeconnection is shown for purposes of clarity, but those skilled in theart are familiar with many actual types of connections to use.Additionally link 256 is shown from CCP 250 to the network elements(260-270). Link 256 is similarly represented as a bus-type link forclarity, and multiple links are actually used, although some networkelements may not even require links. Link 214 has been simplified forclarity in the same fashion.

In one embodiment, user 220 may desire to establish a communicationspath to user 230. CCP 250 would make the appropriate selections andsignal the network elements in network 210 as discussed with regard tothe embodiments of FIG. 1. As a result, a communications path would beestablished from user 220 to user 230 through network 210 andconnections 222 and 232.

In another embodiment, user 220 may desire to access one of the variousnetwork elements (260-270). User 220 will typically seize connection 222to network 210 and generate signaling. Both in-band signaling onconnection 222 and out-of-band signaling on link 224 would be directedto CCP 250. By processing the signaling, CCP 250 can select any of thenetwork elements (260-270) and control the communications throughnetwork 210 and connection 212 to the network elements (260-270).

For example, should user 220 desire to connect to a video server andanother network, user 220 would signal the request. The signaling wouldbe directed to CCP 250 over link 224, or over connection 222 and link214 as discussed above. CCP 250 would process the signaling and make theappropriate selections. CCP 250 would signal network 210 and videoservers 266 of its selections. As a result, a communications path wouldbe set-up from user 220 to video servers 266.

Additionally, CCP 250 would control communications to the other networkwhich is represented by networks 260. Networks 260 could be any otherform of telecommunications network—either public or private. CCP 250would make the appropriate selections to further the communications pathover connection 212 and network 210 to networks 260. Upon signaling fromCCP 250, the connections comprising the communications path would bemade. Networks 260 would also be signalled by CCP 250 over link 256. Assuch a communication path is set up from user 230 to video servers 266and on to networks 260.

There may also be several devices represented by particular networkelement shown on FIG. 2. CCP 250 could also select the particular deviceto access. For example, take the situation in which voice servers 268represents 20 individual voice server devices split among threedifferent locations. On each call, CCP 250 could select the actual voiceserver device which should be used on that call and control thecommunications through network 210 and connection 212 to the selecteddevice. Alternatively, CCP 250 may only be required to select group ofdevices, for instance at a particular location, instead of the actualdevice.

As is known, large telecommunication networks are comprised of numerousnetwork elements, connections, and links. The present invention issuitable for use in this context. FIG. 3 shows a version of the presentinvention in the context of a large network. Typically, this networkwould be comprised of several broadband switches, narrowband switches,muxes, signal transfer points (STPs), Service Control Points (SCPs),operator centers, video servers, voice servers, adjunct processors,enhanced services platforms, connections, and links. For purposes ofclarity, only a few of these possibilities are shown on FIG. 3. For thesame reason, connections and links are not numbered.

FIG. 3 shows Telecommunications Network 310 which is comprised of STP340, STP 345, CCP 350, SCP 355, broadband switches 360, 362, 364, and366, interworking units 361 and 365, narrowband switches 370 and 375,and muxes 380, 382, 384, and 386. Aside from CCP 350, these elements ofa large network are familiar to one skilled in the art and examples ofthe of these network elements are as follows: STP—DSC CommunicationsMegahub; SCP—Tandem CLX; broadband switch—Fore Systems ASX-100;narrowband switch—Northern Telecom DMS-250; and mux—Digital LinkPremisWay with CBR module.

In at least one embodiment, the broadband switches are equipped withsignaling interworking units. These units translate SS7 messages intoB-ISDN messages. In that event, the CCP could transmit SS7 to thebroadband switches which could convert the signals properly.Interworking is discussed in ITU-TS Recommendation Q.2660, “B-ISDN,B-ISUP to N-ISUP Interworking”.

When user information passes from a broadband network to a narrowbandnetwork, it typically must pass through a mux. Muxes can converttransmitted information back and forth between narrowband and broadbandformats. In at least one embodiment, each broadband connection on oneside of a mux corresponds to a narrowband connection on the other sideof the mux. In this way, the CCP can track connections through the mux.If the communication path is on a given narrowband connection enteringthe mux, it will exit the mux on its corresponding broadband connection.This correspondence allows the CCP to identify connections on each sideof the mux based on the entry connection. Muxes are typically placed atany interface between narrowband and broadband connections.

As long as the connections correspond through the mux, the CCP can trackthe communication path properly. Alternatively, the connections may notcorrespond. In that case, signaling links between the muxes and the CCPwould be required for the devices to communicate and allow the CCP totrack the communication path.

Additionally, Telecommunications Network 310 includes the connectionsand links which are not numbered. These connections and links arefamiliar to those skilled in the art. Some examples of possibleconnections are switched digital lines, satellite links, microwavelinks, cellular links, and dedicated digital lines, but there areothers. The signaling links are typically data links, such as 56 kilobitlines. The signaling may employ SS7, Broadband, C6, C7, CCIS, Q.933,Q.931, T1.607, Q.2931, B-ISUP or other forms of signaling technology.The present invention is fully operational with the many variationswhich are well known in the art. Additionally, it is also known that adirect link between two devices can be used instead of an STP for signalrouting.

Outside of Telecommunications Network 310 are first point 320, secondpoint 330, LEC switch 325, LEC switch 335, LEC STP 328, and LEC STP 338.These devices are shown along with their links and connections. Firstpoint 320 is connected to LEC switch 325. LEC switch 325 is linked toLEC STP 328 which routes signaling from LEC switch 325. LEC switch 325is also connected to mux 380 of Telecommunications Network 310. LEC STP228 is linked to STP 340 of Telecommunications Network 310.

STP 340 is linked to STP 345. The other links are as follows. STPs 340and 345 are linked to CCP 350. CCP 350 is linked to interworking units361 and 365 of broadband switches 360 and 364 respectively. CCP 350 islinked to broadband switches 362 and 366, and narrowband switch 375. STP345 is linked to narrowband switch 370 and SCP 355. STP 345 is alsolinked to LEC STP 338 which is linked to LEC switch 335.

Mux 380 is connected to broadband switch 360. Broadband switch 360 isconnected to broadband switches 362 and 364. Broadband switch 362 isconnected to mux 384 which is connected to narrowband switch 375.Broadband switch 364 is connected to mux 382 which is connected tonarrowband switch 370. Broadband switches 362 and 364 are both connectedto broadband switch 366. Broadband switch 366 is connected to mux 386which is connected to LEC switch 335. LEC switch 335 is connected tosecond point 330.

When a call is placed from first point 320 that requires the use ofTelecommunications Network 310, LEC switch 325 will typically seize aconnection to Telecommunications Network 310 and generate a signalcontaining call information. At present, this signal is in SS7 formatand the seized connection is a DS0 port. The signal is transmitted toLEC STP 328 which transfers it on to STP 340. LEC switch 325 alsoextends the communication path over the seized connection. These LECcomponents and the process of establishing communication paths between apoint, a LEC, and an IXC are familiar to those skilled in the art.

Telecommunications Network 310 accepts the communication path on thenarrowband side of mux 380. The present invention can also acceptbroadband calls that do not require a mux, but typically, calls from aLEC will be narrowband. Mux 380 converts the call to broadband andplaces it on the broadband connection that corresponds to the seizedconnection. The communication path extends to broadband switch 360through mux 380.

STP 340 transfers the signal from LEC STP 328 to STP 345 which, in turn,routes the signal to CCP 350. Also, CCP 350 accepts status messages fromthe broadband and narrowband switches over standard communicationslines, and may query SCP 355 for information. Any suitable database orprocessor could be used to support CCP 350 queries. CCP 350 uses thisinformation and its own programmed instructions to make communicationcontrol selections. For calls that require narrowband switch treatment,CCP 350 will select the narrowband switch.

Preferably, CCP 350 can select any narrowband switch inTelecommunications Network 310. For example, it may extend thecommunication path through the broadband network to a narrowband switchacross the network for processing, or it may extend the communicationpath to a narrowband switch connected to the broadband switch thatoriginally accepts the communication path. Additionally, no narrowbandswitch may be required at all. For clarity, all of the switchesrepresenting these possibilities are not shown on FIG. 3.

CCP 350 will select at least one network characteristic in response tothe signaling. Typically, this will be the network elements orconnections that will make the communication path. As discussed withregard to the above embodiments, CCP 350 may select only the networkelements and allow the switches to select the connections, or theselections can be distributed among the two. For example, CCP 350 mayonly select some of the network elements and connections and allow theswitches to select some of the network elements and connections. CCP 350might only select the narrowband switches and allow the broadbandswitches to select the broadband switches that will make thecommunication path. CCP 350 can also select other networkcharacteristics, such as applications and control instructions.

In one embodiment, CCP 350 will select the narrowband switches toprocess particular calls and the DS0 ports on those switches which willaccept these calls. The broadband switches will select the broadbandswitches and the broadband connections to the DS0 port. Restricted tothe possibilities depicted on FIG. 3, CCP 350 may select eithernarrowband switch 370 or narrowband switch 375 to process the call.Assuming CCP 350 selects narrowband switch 370, it would also select aDS0 port on narrowband switch 370 to accept the connection. CCP 350would then signal broadband switch 360 through interworking unit 361 tofurther the communications path to the selected DS0 port on narrowbandswitch 370.

Of the possible routes, broadband switch 360 would be left to select theother broadband switches and connections to use. Assuming the routedirectly to broadband switch 364 is selected, broadband switch 360 wouldfurther the communications path to that switch. Broadband switch 360would also signal broadband switch 364 of the communication path.Broadband switch 364 would further the communication path to through mux382 to access the specified DS0 port on narrowband switch 370. This isaccomplished by corresponding the connections through the mux asdiscussed above. CCP 350 will signal narrowband switch 370 of theincoming communication path. This signal is routed by STP 345.Narrowband switch 370 will process the call on the specified DS0 port.Typically, this would include billing and routing the call. Narrowbandswitch 370 may also query SCP 355 to aid in application of services tothe call. For example, narrowband switch 370 may retrieve an “800”translation from SCP 355. As a result of the processing, narrowbandswitch 370 will switch the call and generate a new signal which mayinclude routing information. The signal is sent to CCP 350 through STP345. The communication path is furthered on a new connection back tobroadband switch 364 through mux 382. CCP 350 may use the information inthe signal, SCP information, network element information, operationalinstructions, and/or its own routing logic to make new selections forthe call. The network element information and operational instructionscould be signalled to CCP 350 or delivered over standard data lines.

In one embodiment, the selection of a network characteristic willinclude the selection of a network code. Network codes are the logicaladdresses of network elements. One such code is a destination code thatfacilitates egress from Telecommunications System 310. The destinationcode typically represents a network element that is connected to a LECswitch. Once a destination is selected, CCP 350 will signal broadbandswitch 364 of its selections and the communication path will befurthered through the broadband network accordingly. In the currentexample this could be through broadband switch 366 and mux 386. Thecommunication path would be furthered to the specified port on LECswitch 335. Typically, this involves the seizure of a connection on theLEC switch by the IXC.

In one embodiment, whenever broadband switch 366 extends a communicationpath to mux 386, it is programmed to signal CCP 350 of the broadbandconnection it has selected. This allows CCP 350 to track the specificDS0 port on the LEC switch that has been seized. CCP 350 would signalLEC switch 335 through STP 345 and LEC STP 338 of the incoming call onthe seized DS0 connection. As a result, LEC switch 335 would further thecommunication path to second point 330.

It can be seen from the above disclosure that the present inventionallows a telecommunications network to employ a broadband network tomake call connections. By using muxes to convert calls and a CCP toanalyze signaling, this broadband network remains transparent to thenetworks of other companies. An example of such a transparent interfaceis between an interexchange carrier (IXC) network and a local exchangecarrier (LEC) network. Similarly the network will be transparent ifdeployed in only a portion of a single company's network infrastructure.

In the above embodiment, the LEC seizes an IXC DS0 port and signals toan IXC STP. The mux and the CCP convert the call and analyze the signalappropriately. No changes in other existing carrier systems, such as LECsystems, are required.

Additionally the narrowband switch receives the call and signal in itsown format and switches the call. Although the switch may “think” thecall is routed over a trunk to another narrowband switch, the callactually goes right back to the mux and broadband switch that sent thecall. The narrowband switch is used to apply features to the call, i.e.billing, routing, etc. The broadband network is used to make thesubstantial portion of the call connection. The CCP may use narrowbandswitch call processing information to make selections.

The CCP performs many functions. In one embodiment, it accepts signalingfrom a first point or LEC and provides appropriate signals in accordwith the communication control selections it has made. These selectionsare network characteristics. The CCP may select network elements such asswitches, servers, or network codes. The CCP may select connections,such as DS0 circuits and ports. The CCP may select particulartelecommunications applications to be applied to the communicationspath. The CCP may select particular control instructions for particulardevices. The CCP may also receive information from entities such asSCPs, operational control, or switches to aid in its selections.

The CCP is a processing system, and as such, those skilled in the artare aware that such systems can be housed in a single device ordistributed among several devices. Additionally, multiple devices withoverlapping capabilities might be desired for purposes of redundancy.The present invention encompasses these variations. One such operationalsystem would be multiple pairs of CCPs located regionally within atelecommunications system. Each machine would be equally capable ofcommunication control. One example of a CCP device would be a Tandem CLXmachine configured in accord with this disclosure of the presentinvention.

A signaling point handles the signaling for a switch. Switches which areused to route calls typically have a signaling point which is directlycoupled to a processor in the switch. This processor controls aswitching matrix in the switch in response to the signaling processed bythe signaling point. Thus, there is typically a one to onecorrespondence of a signaling point for each switch and matrix.

The CCP is not directly coupled to one switch, one switch processor(CPU), or one switching matrix. In contrast, the CCP has the capabilityof directing a plurality of switches. Thus, the CCP can direct multipleswitch matrixes by signaling multiple signaling points.

It is possible to house the CCP within other telecommunication devices,even switches. Although the CCP can be primarily distinguished from aswitch CPU based on physical location, this does not have to be thecase. A switch CPU receives information from a signaling point andcontrols the matrix of a single switch. Some switches distribute thematrix among different physical locations, but the CPU controls eachmatrix based on information received from a single signaling point. Thisinformation is not signaling.

In contrast, the CCP receives signaling and has the ability to signalother network elements. It can communicate with multiple signalingpoints. These signaling points provide information to the switch CPUswhich control the switch matrixes. By signaling multiple signalingpoints, the CCP is able to direct the matrixes of multiple switchesbased on the signaling and other information the CCP obtains. A CCP isnot associated with a single switch matrix. A CCP does not requirecommunication path connections in order to operate.

The main capabilities of one version of a CCP are shown on FIG. 4. CCP450 comprises interface 460, translator 470 operably connected tointerface 460, processor 480 operably connected to translator 470, andmemory 490 operably connected to processor 480.

CCP 450 functions to physically connect incoming links from otherdevices such as STPs, switches, SCPs, and operational control systems.Interface 460 is functional to accept the signals off of these links andtransfer the signals to translator 470. Interface 460 is also be able totransfer signaling from translator 470 to the links for transmission.

Translator 470 accepts the signaling from interface 460 and identifiesthe information in the signaling. Often, this will be done byidentifying a known field within a given signaling message. For example,translator 470 might identify the Origination Point Code (OPC),Destination Point Code (DPC), and Circuit Identification Code (CIC) inan SS7 message. Additionally, translator 470 must be able to formulateoutgoing signaling and transmit it to interface 460 for transmission.For example, translator 470 might replace the OPC, DPC, and CIC in agiven SS7 message and transfer the modified SS7 message to interface 460for transmission. Translator 510 must be equipped to manage thesignaling formats it will encounter. Examples are SS7 and C7.

Processor 480 accepts the signaling information from translator 470 andmakes the selections that accomplish communication control. Thisincludes the selection of the network elements and/or connections thatmake the communications path. Typically, selections are made throughtable look-ups and SCP queries. Tables are entered and queries aregenerated based in part on the information identified by translator 470.The table look-ups and SCP information retrieval yield new signalinginformation. The new information is transferred to translator 470 forformulation into appropriate signals for transmission. Algorithmsolution could also be used to make selections. Processor 480 alsohandles various status messages and alarms from the switches and othernetwork elements. Operational control can also be accepted. Thisinformation can be used to modify the look-up tables or selectionalgorithms. Memory 490 is used by processor 480 to store programming,information, and tables.

FIG. 5 shows a flow diagram for the CCP for a version of the presentinvention. The sequence begins with the CCP receiving different types ofinformation. Box 500 depicts the CCP accepting a signal from a firstpoint. This signal could be in any format, such as SS7 or broadbandsignaling. The signal may have passed through STPs from a LEC over asignaling link, or it may also be a signal directly provided by anindividual user of a network. The signal contains information about therequested communication path. An example of such information is themessage type which indicates the purpose of the message. Another exampleof such information is set-up information such as transit networkservice value, bearer capability, nature of address, calling partycategory, address presentation restriction status, carrier selectionvalue, charge number, and originating line information, and service codevalue. Other information might be a network indicator or a serviceindicator. Those skilled in the art are familiar with these types ofinformation.

Other types of information might also be accessed by the CCP. Thenetwork elements, such as switches, may provide the CCP with informationas shown in box 505. This information allows the CCP to select networkelements and connections based on network conditions. Examples ofpossible types of such information could be management messages,loading, error conditions, alarms, or idle circuits. The CCP might alsoprovide the network elements with information.

Box 510 shows that operational control might be provided. Operationalcontrol allows system personnel to program the CCP. An example of suchcontrol might be to implement a management decision to retire aparticular network element. Operational control would allow the removalthat element from the selection process.

The CCP processes the information is has received in box 515. Processingalso entails the use of programmed instructions in the CCP, and mighteven include the use of information retrieved from a remote database,such as an SCP. The selections are then made as shown in box 520. Theseselections specify network characteristics, such as network elementsand/or connections. As stated above, The CCP may only select a portionof the network characteristics and allow the points or the switches toselect the remainder. It should be pointed out that the information usedin processing is not limited to that which is listed, and those skilledin the art will recognize other useful information which may be sent tothe CCP.

Once network characteristics are selected, the CCP will signal thepoints and the applicable network elements of the selections. In box525, signals are formulated instructing the network elements of thenetwork characteristics selected. The signals are transmitted to theappropriate network elements in box 535 which will typically result in acommunication path through the network elements and connections. Otheractivity, such as applications and control procedures might beimplemented as well. Additionally, in boxes 530 and 540, signals areformulated and sent to the points. Typically the new signals generatedby the CCP are sent to network elements or multiple signaling points.These new signals could be the same, however different signaling istypically sent to the different network elements which may used as partof a communication path.

FIG. 5 represents the sequence that the CCP performs in one embodimentto control communications and establish a communication path from afirst point to a second point through network elements and connections.FIGS. 6 and 7 represent a similar sequence, and they are in the contextof an Interexchange Carrier (IXC) similar to that depicted in FIG. 3.The IXC accepts DS0 connections and SS7 signaling from a LEC and employsa broadband system to make the substantial portion of the communicationpath.

FIG. 6 depicts the flow of the CCP in a version of the present inventionwhen a communication path is established from the LEC to a narrowbandswitch in the IXC. Box 600 shows that an SS7 message is accepted fromthe LEC which contains a Message Transfer Part (MTP) and an IntegratedService User Part (ISUP). As those skilled in the art are aware, the MTPcontains the Originating Point Code (OPC) and the Destination Point Code(DPC). These point codes define specific signaling points in the networkand are typically associated with a switch. As such, the OPC and DPCdefine a portion of the desired communication path.

When the communication path is extended into the IXC network, the OPCdesignates the LEC switch that connected to the IXC (#325 on FIG. 3).Previously, the DPC has designated the narrowband switch that the LECwould connect to for calls into the IXC. In this embodiment of thepresent invention, the DPC may designate a particular narrowband switchfrom the LEC's perspective, but the CCP actually selects the actualnarrowband switch used. A mux or a broadband switch accepts theconnection from the LEC, not a narrowband switch.

The ISUP contains the Circuit Identification Code (CIC) which designatesthe DS0 port that the LEC has seized. Previously, this DS0 Port was on anarrowband switch, but in this embodiment of the present invention, theDS0 port is actually on a mux.

Box 605 shows that the CCP may receive status information from thenarrowband switches. These messages include Operational Measurements(OM) and CPU Occupancy information. OM includes trunk usage status ofthe switches which tells the CCP which DS0 ports are available on thenarrowband switches. CPU Occupancy tells the CCP of the specificswitching load of each narrowband switch. Box 610 shows that the CCP mayalso accept status information from the broadband switches indicatingwhich connections are idle. This information allows the CCP to specifyand balance routing through the broadband switches if desired. Asdiscussed in relation to some of the other embodiments, the broadbandswitches may be left with that selection.

The CCP processes the information it has received in box 615. Thoseskilled in the art are aware of other information which would be usefulin this context. As a result of the processing, a narrowband switch anda DS0 port on that switch are typically selected as shown in box 620.The selected narrowband switch may be close to the LEC or across thebroadband network. The CCP determines which narrowband switch willprocess the call. This makes the narrowband switches virtuallyinterchangeable.

Box 625 shows that a signal indicating these selections is generated andsent to the appropriate broadband switches in box 635. As discussed, thebroadband switches may employ interworking units to handle signaling.Typically, the broadband switches will use internal tables to selectbroadband connections based on information in the signal from the CCP.Such information might identify the existing extent of the communicationpath and specify the narrowband switch and the DS0 port on that switchto which the communication path should be extended. The tables would beentered with this information and yield a particular broadbandconnection to use. Broadband switches further along the communicationspath could also receive similar signals from the CCP and use similartables. Alternatively, the broadband switches further along thecommunications path might only need to enter an internal table using theincoming broadband connection and yield a new broadband connection onwhich to extend the communications path.

Those skilled in the art are familiar with broadband systems which canaccomplish this. Broadband signaling is discussed in the followingITU-TS Recommendations: Q.2762 “B-ISDN, B-ISDN User Part—GeneralFunctions of Messages”; Q.2763 “B-ISDN, B-ISDN User Part—Formats andCodes”; Q.2764 “B-ISDN, B-ISDN User Part—Basic Call Procedures”; Q.2730“B-ISDN, B-ISDN User Part—Supplementary Services”; Q.2750 “B-ISDN,B-ISDN User Part to DSS2 Interworking Procedures”; and Q.2610 “Usage ofCause and Location in B-ISDN User Part and DSS2”.

In at least one embodiment, the broadband switches are equipped withsignaling interworking units. These units translate SS7 messages intoB-ISDN messages. In that event, the CCP could transmit SS7 to thebroadband switches which could convert the signals properly.Interworking is discussed in ITU-TS Recommendation Q.2660, “B-ISDN,B-ISUP to N-ISUP Interworking”.

In one embodiment, the broadband switches may select the actual virtualconnection that corresponds through a mux to a DS0 port. This DS0 portcould be on a narrowband switch or a on a point, such as a LEC switch.In this case, the CCP would not need to select a DS0 port since thebroadband switch was in effect doing so. The internal tables of thebroadband switches would be programmed to trigger when the particularbroadband switch was connecting to particular broadband connections.These connections might be to a DS0 port on a narrowband switch or anyspecified point. Upon the trigger, the broadband switch would signal theCCP of the broadband connection it has used. The CCP would incorporatethis information into the signal it sends to the narrowband switch orspecified point. It is preferred that the CCP select the DS0 port on theselected narrowband switches, and that the broadband switches be allowedto select the broadband connection out of the network (through a mux)and signal the CCP of its selection.

The SS7 message from the LEC informed the CCP which DS0 port had beenseized (the CIC), on which IXC device (DPC), and by which LEC switch(the OPC). By tracking the DS0 Port through the mux (#380 on FIG. 3),the CCP knows which connection the communication path will use to get tothe broadband switch (#360 on FIG. 3). The CCP provides the broadbandnetwork with the proper signaling to extend the communication path fromthis switch to the selected narrowband switch as shown in box 635.

Box 630 shows that the CCP formulates an SS7 message based on theselections relating to the narrowband switch. SS7 message formulationmethods, such as drop and insert, are known in the art. A new DPC isinserted that will designate the narrowband switch selected by the CCP.A new CIC is inserted that will designate the DS0 port on that switch asselected by the CCP. The SS7 message is sent to the narrowband switch inbox 640.

As such, the communication path is extended from the LEC through thebroadband network to the narrowband switch, and the narrowband switch isnotified of the incoming communication path. Another portion of the SS7message contains call information including ANI and DNIS. Thisinformation was supplied by the LEC and is in the SS7 message sent tothe narrowband switch.

The narrowband switch uses this information along with its ownprogramming to switch the call. This switching may include variousswitching programs and remote databases. The narrowband switch willselect a new DPC based on this processing. It will switch the call to anew DS0 port. Previously, this port was connected to a trunk connectedto the next narrowband switch in the call routing scenario. However, inthe present invention, the DS0 port is connected through a mux tobroadband switch. The narrowband switch will place the new DPC in an SS7message. Along with the new DPC, a new CIC identifying the new DS0circuit, and a new OPC designating the narrowband switch itself isplaced in the SS7 message and sent to the CCP.

FIG. 7 shows the flow of the CCP when extending a communication pathfrom the selected narrowband switch to a point outside of the IXC in oneembodiment of the present invention. The SS7 message generated by thenarrowband switch after processing the call is received by the CCP inbox 700. In it, the CIC designates the DS0 port the communications pathextends from on the narrowband switch. Because his port is connected toa mux with corresponding connections, the CCP can determine whichconnection the communication path uses to extend back to the broadbandswitch.

The CCP may also receive status information from the broadband switchesas shown in box 705. This information allows the CCP to select broadbandconnections if desired. As discussed, the broadband switches may makethese selections. Typically, the broadband switches will use internaltables to select broadband connections based on information in thesignal from the CCP. Such information might specify destination code.The destination code might correspond to a terminating switch or a LECswitch to which the communication path should be extended.

As shown in box 710, the CCP applies processing and selects theappropriate destination for the broadband network to extend thecommunication path to as shown in box 715. The CCP may use the new DPCprovided by the narrowband switch to identify the destination for thebroadband communication path.

In box 720, signals are generated reflecting this selection and sent tothe appropriate broadband switches in box 725. As discussed, thebroadband switch may trigger and signal the CCP when it uses particularconnections. This would occur for a connection through a mux to a LECswitch. This signal is accepted by the CCP in box 730 and is used toidentify the DS0 port. An SS7 message is formulated in box 735 and in itthe CIC will identify this DS0 connection on the LEC switch (#335 onFIG. 3). Alternatively, this DS0 port may have been selected by the CCPand signalled to the broadband switch. The LEC is signalled in box 740.

From FIGS. 6 and 7, a sequence is shown that demonstrates the proceduresthat the CCP can follow to accept signaling from the LEC and makeselections that control communications through the IXC network. The CCPmust produce signals to implement its selections and transmit them tothe applicable network elements. The CCP is able to use the routing,billing, and service features of a narrowband switch, but is still isable to employ a broadband network to make a substantial part of thecommunications path.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of CCP signal processing in one embodiment ofthe invention. Box 800 shows that an SS7 signal has been accepted by theCCP. Box 805 shows that the CCP determines the message type. If themessage is not a call message, it is routed or used to update the CCPmemory if appropriate as shown in box 810. Non-call messages arefamiliar to those skilled in the art with examples being filler ormanagement messages. If the SS7 message is a call message, it isexamined to determine if it is an initial address message (IAM) in box815. Call messages and IAMs are familiar to those skilled in the art. Ifit is an IAM, the information provided by automatic numberidentification (ANI) is used to validate the call in box 820. ANIvalidation is accomplished with a table look-up and is well known. Ifinvalid, the communication path is terminated as shown in box 825.

Once an IAM with a valid ANI is determined, a table is entered whichyields an OPC-DPC-CIC combination as shown in box 830. One skilled inthe art will recognize that such a table can take many forms. Oneexample is to set up a table with every combination of OPC-DPC-CIC onone side. The table is entered using the OPC-DPC-CIC of the incoming IAMmessage. After entry through these fields is accomplished, the tableyields a new OPC-DPC-CIC which can be formulated into the SS7 messageand sent to the switching network as shown in box 835. The switchingnetwork is capable of using this information to make connections.

Once the IAM signal has been processed, subsequent SS7 messaging can beprocessed by a separate CIC look-up table entered using the CIC as shownin box 840. Subsequent messages, such as address complete, answer,release, and release complete can be processed by entering the CIC tableusing the CIC in these non-IAM signals. For signals directed to thefirst point, the table yields the original OPC which is used as the DPC.Additionally, subsequent messages from the first point enter the CICtable using their CIC, and the table yields the DPC previously selectedby the CCP for the IAM processing. The CIC table is constantly updatedto reflect current processing as shown in box 845. In this way, the CCPis able to efficiently process non-IAMs because theses signals only needto reflect the results of previous IAM selections.

There can be exceptions to the use of the CIC table for non-IAM callmessages. One example would be if a new connection is allowed afterrelease. In that case, the IAM procedures would be followed.

Those skilled in the art will recognize the numerous factors that can beused to design and load the tables. Different OPC—DPC—CIC combinationscan be yielded by the tables based on many factors. Some of thesefactors are: called number, time of day, CPU occupancy, switch status,trunk status, automatic call distribution, operational control, errorconditions, network alarms, user requests, and network element status.

For example, if a certain switch must be taken out of service, it ismerely replaced in the table with suitable substitutes. The switch isthen effectively taken out of service because it is no longer selected.If the CPU loading of a certain switch reaches a threshold, its presencein the tables can be diminished and distributed to other switches.

In another example, if it is busy hour in region A, the tables may yieldnetwork elements in region B to process the call. This can beaccomplished by adding an area code or a dialed number entry, and timeof day entry in the table. For calls placed from an OPC in region A toan area code or dialed number in region B, a narrowband switch in regionB could be selected. As such, the DPC yielded by the table during thistime frame should reflect a region B narrowband switch. Also, for callsplaced from an OPC in region B to an area code or dialed number inregion A, the tables should provide the DPC of a region B narrowbandswitch.

In a preferred embodiment, IAM messages would cause the CCP to query anSCP, data element, or database for support. The SCP would answer thequery by using tables as discussed above. The answers would be sent tothe CCP and used to formulate signaling. Subsequent messages would bethen handled by the CCP using the CIC table. An example of such supportwould be for the CCP to query the SCP in response to receiving an IAMmessage. The query may include the OPC, CIC, DPC, and the area code, ordialed number. The SCP could use this information to select networkcharacteristics and avoid busy regions as described in the above busyregion example. For example, the SCP would maintain tables forOPC—dialed area code—time of day combinations that would yield a new DPCand CIC. This assumes that busy hour in a region corresponds to time ofday, but other factors and yields could also be involved.

In one embodiment, the dialed number or area code could be used toselect the new DPC, and time stamps could be placed in the signaling.This might entail tables with OPC—dialed area code entries that yield anew DPC and CIC. In this case, narrowband switches may not even beneeded since billing can be applied using the time stamps. The CCP couldthen route the call directly using only the broadband network. This isespecially relevant for POTS calls in which only an area code entrywould need to be added to the tables.

As discussed above, often a connection will consist of two separateconnection procedures. One connection procedure will be from theorigination to a selected network element. The other connectionprocedure will be from the selected network element to the destination.Also it has been disclosed that the CCP could actually be discreetmachines located regionally. In these cases, the CCP device processingthe first connection procedure could be located in the originationregion, and the CCP device that processes the second connectionprocedure could be located in the region of the selected networkelement.

The present invention offers the advantage of separating at least aportion of the communication control from the communication path. Byexamining and translating signaling independently of the communicationpath, multiple switches and network elements can be connected in theoptimum way. Communications paths are no longer limited to only theconnections the switches can control. Networks do not have to wait forstandardization among signaling and interface protocols.

The present invention allows for the selection of networkcharacteristics, such as network elements and connections, beforeswitches process or apply the signaling. The switches are not requiredto have a capability either to make selections or to signal each other.The switches only make connections as directed by the CCP which signalsin each switches own signaling format. Various criteria can be used forthe selections in the CCP, such as time of day, load balancing, orinvalid ANI. As such, the present invention allows for a smoothtransition from narrowband to broadband networks. It also allows for theselection of network elements, such as servers and enhanced servicesplatforms.

The present invention represents a fundamental and powerful departurefrom previous telecommunications technology. By separating thecommunications path from communication control, the CCP can utilizedifferent networks and network devices intelligently. Previously,telecommunications systems have been dependent on the switches toaccomplish communication control. As such, telecommunications systemshave had to wait for the switches to develop communication controlbefore new technology could be implemented. Switches have always beenrequired to physically make connections and provide control over whichconnections are required. Switch capabilities have not been able to keepup with all of the network possibilities available. The result is alimited system.

Switches have been given support in this dual task. SCPs, STPs, andadjunct processors provide support for communication control. However,these devices only support the switches communication control, and theswitch remains essential to communication control. This dependence hascreated a bottleneck given the available network possibilities.

One advantage of the present invention is that it allows narrowbandswitches be used interchangeably in a narrowband/broadband hybridnetwork. Any narrowband switch may be taken out of service withoutre-routing traffic and changing routing logic in each switch. The CCP issimply programmed not to select the given narrowband switch for callprocessing. The CCP will route calls over the broadband network toanother narrowband switch. This flexibility also allows thetelecommunications network to easily transfer narrowband switch loads.

An important advantage of this system is that both the advantages ofbroadband and narrowband systems are utilized. The transmissioncapabilities of a broadband network are coupled with the narrowbandnetwork's ability to apply features. For example, the CCP can use thebroadband network to substantially make the call connection fromorigination to destination. The CCP diverts the traffic to thenarrowband network for processing. The narrowband network can applyfeatures, such as billing and routing. Once processed, the traffic isdirected back to the broadband network for completion of the connection.The CCP can then use the routing information generated by the narrowbandsystem to route the traffic through the broadband system to thedestination. As a result, the telecommunications system does not have todevelop a billing or “800” routing feature for its broadband network.This can be accomplished because the CCP allows both networks to worktogether intelligently.

Another advantage of the present invention is the elimination of asubstantial percentage of the DS0 ports required on the existingnarrowband switches. In the current architectures, narrowband switchesare interconnected to each other. A substantial percentage of the switchports are taken up by these connections. By eliminating the need for theswitches to connect to each other, these ports can be eliminated. Eachnarrowband switch is only connected to the broadband system. Thisarchitecture requires fewer ports per switch. By load balancing with theCCP, the number of ports required on busy switches can be reduced. Thearchitecture in the present invention does require additional broadbandports, but these can be added at a significant cost saving versusnarrowband ports.

Additionally, the narrowband switches no longer signal each other sinceall signaling is directed to the CCP. This concentration accounts for areduction in required signaling link ports. This reduction possiblycould result in the elimination of STPs.

As mentioned above, an advantage of the present invention is its abilityto treat narrowband switches, or groups of narrowband switches,interchangeably. The CCP can pick any narrowband switch to process aparticular call. This allows the network to pull narrowband switches outof service without taking extreme measures. In turn, this simplifies theintroduction of new services into the network. A switch can be pulledout of service simply by instructing the CCP to stop selecting it. Theswitch can be re-programmed and put back into service. Then the nextswitch can then be updated in the same manner until all of the switchesare implementing the new service. Switches can also be easily pulled totest developing applications.

This narrowband switch flexibility also allows the CCP to balance switchloads through the network during peak times, or during mass callingevents. This eliminates the need to implement complex and expensive loadbalancing features in the narrowband network. Instead of programming theseveral switches to balance among themselves, one command to the CCP canachieve this.

Another advantage is the reduction in call set-up time. Most largenetworks require that a call pass through more than two narrowbandswitches arranged in a hierarchical fashion. One large network employs aflat architecture in which all narrowband switches are interconnected,but this still requires that the call pass through two narrowbandswitches. In the present invention, only one narrowband switch isrequired for each call. The use of broadband switches to set-up andcomplete the call represents significant time savings.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of extending a communications path in acommunications system in response to signaling, wherein thecommunications system is comprised of a processor, an AsynchronousTransfer Mode (ATM) multiplexer, and an ATM switch, wherein the methodcomprises: (a) receiving the signaling into the processor; (b)processing the signaling in the processor to select a firstcharacteristic and a second characteristic for the communications path;(c) generating a first message and a second message in the processorwherein the first message incorporates the first characteristic and thesecond message incorporates the second characteristic; (d) transmittingthe first message and the second message from the processor; (e)receiving the communications path and the first message into the ATMmultiplexer; (f) extending the communications path from the ATMmultiplexer to the ATM switch in response to the first message; (g)receiving the communications path and the second message into the ATMswitch; and (h) extending the communications path from the ATM switch inresponse to the second message.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein thesignaling comprises a Signaling System #7 (SS7) Initial Address Message(IAM).
 3. The method of claim 1 wherein the signaling comprises a C7message.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein the signaling comprises aBroadband Integrated Services User Part (B-ISUP) message.
 5. The methodof claim 1 wherein the first characteristic comprises an ATM connection.6. The method of claim 1 wherein the first characteristic comprises anDS0 connection.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the firstcharacteristic comprises an application.
 8. The method of claim 1wherein the second characteristic comprises an ATM connection.
 9. Themethod of claim 1 wherein step (b) includes processing caller numberinformation.
 10. The method of claim 1 wherein step (b) includesprocessing called number information.
 11. The method of claim 1 whereinstep (b) includes processing bearer capability information.